Tough Army test awaits Jowitt’s men

DEWSBURY Rams will head south to Weymouth today as they face a team building weekend with The Army.

The 26-man squad will be joined by Warren Jowitt, his coaching staff and physio for what is sure to be a fun-filled weekend.

A range of tasks have been planned by the Army but Jowitt is keeping what activities the squad will be doing close to his chest.

Fourways Coaches have sponsored the trip by providing transport, while Jowitt will help out with coaching sessions with The Army rugby team as a way of thanking them.

Jowitt explained: “One of my best friends is a staff sargeant with The Army and he has arranged this for us.

“He is also part of The Army rugby team and has asked me to help out with some coaching, which I am happy to do.

“The weekend is planned to bring the lads closer together.

“My role will be to observe the players but me and my coaching staff will also be taking part in some activities as I don’t believe in asking them to do something that I would not do myself.”

Dewsbury return to action on January 22 when Bradford Bulls make their annual trip to Tetley’s Stadium for a game which the Rams hope will boost their coffers through gate receipts.

Bradford have indicated to Jowitt that they intend to play a strong side against the Rams and the match is just three weeks away from the start of the regular season, when Dewsbury entertain Halifax in their opening group game of the Northern Rail Cup on Sunday February 12.

Josh Tonks and Scott Spavin have earned the praise of Jowitt for their hard work in training, while newcomers Craig Cook, Dwayne Barker and Ryan Esders have also impressed the coach.

Jowitt added: “Craig Cook and Dwayne Barker have been a godsend to me with the things they bring to the team.

“The have been a great help to me, which is something I haven’t previously had at Dewsbury.”

Former Dewsbury player Jordan Tansey has joined Co-operativeChampionship rivals York City Knights and is set to make his debut against Leeds Rhinos on Sunday.

The former Leeds, Hull FC and South Sydney player could return to Tetley’s Stadium on March 11, exactly a year since leaving the Rams, when Dewsbury meet York in their opening Championship match.